Morgenster Estate Red 2019

Crafted by the family-owned Morgenster Estate—founded in 1711 and revitalised under the stewardship of Giulio Bertrand and winemaker Christopher Keet—this flagship 2019 red blend typifies Stellenbosch elegance. Crafted from a thoughtful combination of Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot sourced from estate vineyards on decomposed granite, shale, and clay soils, it demonstrates the estate’s move into a modern, sustainably-minded era.

Tasting Notes:

Appearance: Deep ruby with youthful vibrancy.

Nose: Inviting aromas of black and red cherries, plum, cassis, pencil shavings, and clove—with hints of tobacco and cedar adding complexity.

Palate: Rich, full-bodied, and layered—black fruit, dark chocolate, liquorice, and toffee lead, with chalky, savoury tannins framed by subtle oak. The structure is poised and enduring.

Finish: Long and graceful, leaving lingering black and red fruit, spice, and a refined mineral core.

Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with grilled lamb, game, slow-cooked beef, rich pasta dishes, and aged cheeses. Also excels alongside duck confit, spicy sausages, or mushroom risottos.

Serving Suggestions: Serve at 16–18 °C after decanting for 30–60 minutes to reveal its full aromatic depth. Evolving over the first few years in bottle, it has the structure to cellar through 2029.

Accolades:

Michelangelo International Wine & Spirits Awards 2024: Double Gold (2019 vintage)

International Wine & Spirit Competition 2024: Bronze (2019 vintage).

James Suckling: Mid 90s scores—hailed for concentrated dark fruit, mocha, and tea-leaf complexity.

Platters: 4.5 Stars

Technical Details:

Blend: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot

Region: Stellenbosch, Western Cape, South Africa

Vintage: 2019

ABV: 14%

Bottle Size: 750ml

Maturation: Approximately 18 months in French oak barrels (mix of new, second-, third-, and fourth-fill).

Fining / Filtration: Unspecified; crafted in line with estate minimalist philosophy.